Runaway Dog: What to Do?

Your dog is your best friend, bringing you a lot of happiness every day. However, sometimes their adventurous instinct drives them to cross the boundaries of your home. Runaways can be a source of stress and worries for you. In fact, your furry friend is then exposed to various dangers and can also cause accidents. You don't know what to do to keep your runaway dog at home and you want to restore a peaceful atmosphere at home, then this article is for you. Did you know that even the most loyal dog can have the desire to escape? Understand why and how to control this unpredictable behavior. Our essential tips will help you keep your dog safe in your garden so that both of you can fully enjoy this space. So, say goodbye to worry and hello to peace of mind with your four-legged friend.

Why Does My Dog Run Away?

This is a common question among dog owners. The reason your dog escapes can be related to several factors. Some dog breeds are naturally more adventurous, more attracted to exploration and the excitement of the unknown. It is essential to understand these different factors to find the most suitable solution:

• Hunting instinct: Dogs have a natural hunting instinct. If a dog detects potential prey, it may be tempted to chase it and go far away, leaving the safety of its garden.

• Boredom: Dogs need physical and mental exercise. A bored dog may seek to escape to find external stimulation. Some breeds like huskies, beagles, or Labradors need a lot of space and play. If they spend too much time alone, they may be inclined to go on an adventure to entertain themselves.

• The call of love: Regardless of your dog's breed, some seasons trigger an irresistible reproductive instinct in them. Females go into heat about twice a year, and it's during this period that your male dog may be tempted to escape to find a mate. Preventing your dog from leaving the garden then becomes an essential mission for any responsible owner. Able to detect the pheromones of his lady from afar, a male dog can travel miles to reach the love of his life.

• Fear: Loud noises, storms, or other frightening factors can push a dog to seek refuge outside the house.

• Aging: As your dog ages, they may suffer from spatial and temporal disorientation, which can lead them to leave the garden and not find their way back.

What Can Be the Consequences of a Runaway Dog?

A runaway dog is, of course, a cause for concern. The sudden disappearance of a pet can be extremely stressful and emotionally taxing. A runaway can also lead to unexpected expenses. The main consequences are as follows:

• A safety risk for the dog: A fleeing dog is exposed to various dangers, such as traffic, wild predators, or even loss or theft.

• Neighborhood problems: Dogs that roam freely can enter neighbors' properties, disturb local wildlife, or create noise disturbances.

• Legal responsibility: Owners of wandering dogs can be held responsible for the damage they cause.

All the consequences mentioned above can have an impact on your wallet, and in the long run, it can become very expensive. It's better to prevent than to cure and invest now to find the right solutions.

How to Prevent a Runaway Dog from Leaving the Garden

Preventing your dog from leaving the garden may seem challenging, but with our anti-runaway tips, you will be equipped to manage this challenge. Discover all our solutions in this article:

Garden Layout

Garden layout is crucial to prevent your runaway dog from escaping. Start by installing a fence around your garden. This will allow your pet to visually define his territory. Opt for sturdy fences resistant to escape attempts. It is important to choose appropriately sized fences to deter your dog from jumping over. Make sure the fences are well anchored to prevent your dog from digging under them. For dogs that still find small escape routes, you can supplement the fence with underground electric wires. The wire is connected to a collar worn by the dog. When the dog approaches the fence, it receives a safe electrostatic stimulation, which helps it understand the property's boundary. Also, consider equipping the access gate with an automatic gate closer like GTS 180/170. This way, there is no risk of the gate accidentally staying open, and your dog running out or another runaway dog getting into your garden. In addition to this, create an attractive play area for your dog in the garden. Add toys, chew bones, and shaded areas to make them feel comfortable. Ensure they have enough water and food. Consider a doghouse, especially if your dog is sensitive. This small house provides a comfortable place for the animal to rest or sleep. It also allows them to isolate themselves when they need calm and tranquility, for example, if there are noises around them that scare them. The doghouse should be well-designed to protect your pet from the elements and should be placed in a quiet, shaded area. It will quickly become a familiar place where your dog feels comfortable and safe. With a well-arranged and secure garden, your dog will prefer to stay in the comfort of your garden rather than seeking adventure elsewhere. You can enjoy the outdoors without worries. In addition to this, we recommend teaching your dog some basic rules in all cases.

Dog Training

Canine training plays an important role when it comes to a runaway dog because it will help your dog respect the boundaries you set! Canine training is more than just training; it's communication between you and your pet. It will also strengthen the bond between you and your loyal companion and make your dog happier in their space.

Your dog should learn simple commands like "stay" or "don't move" and, more importantly, learn the recall command. This will allow you to easily call them back if they leave the house.

To find out if your dog has learned the recall concept, the is a simple trick: Does your dog come back to you when you call them during a walk?

If not, the good news is that it can be learned, and if the dog is still young, they will quickly assimilate it. Here are some exercises that we recommend doing daily to teach your dog the recall:

• Start in your garden. Call your dog regularly, and when they come, praise and reward them with a treat.

• When the dog has understood the exercise, you can repeat it outside the house. Be careful to choose a quiet place without distractions for your dog at first. Let the dog roam a bit, then call them when they are still nearby. When they respond to your call, reward them with a treat and praise them.

• If the dog starts to move away and does not respond to your calls, run in the opposite direction of the dog. Instinctively, the dog will follow you, and you will have their attention again. If you also notice that during walks, your dog no longer cares about you, hide to create a little positive stress. This will help them understand that if they don't pay attention to you, they risk losing you. If you're not comfortable with these exercises, get help from a dog trainer who will take the time to get to know your dog and you and can adapt the learning method.

• Canine training can only bring you positive benefits; you will regain a true bond with your dog. For runaway dogs who can't resist the call of love even after training, sterilization is the only solution.

Sterilization

Sterilization is an effective solution to reduce your dog's desire to escape from the garden. This operation reduces the sexual impulses of your four-legged companion, thus reducing their need to explore beyond your property's limits. Additionally, sterilization is a responsible and caring decision. If your dog regularly leaves the garden, it will help limit uncontrolled breeding. Make an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss this option.

Provide Sufficient Activities for Your Runaway Dog

You must also consider your dog's specific needs. If you have a hunting dog, you will need to offer them long daily walks in nature. If your dog is not a loner, take them with you whenever you can, give them the opportunity to smell new scents, and meet other dogs. If you have a herding dog, you can easily organize agility sessions in your garden. These exercises require physical effort and concentration.

It is essential to expend a runaway dog's energy for several reasons:

• First and foremost, a good dose of physical exercise contributes to maintaining the health and well-being of the animal. A tired dog is generally calmer and less likely to seek adventure outside the house.

• These shared moments of relaxation strengthen the bond between the owner and their dog, promoting better mutual understanding.

• Moreover, boredom is one of the factors that drive dogs to run away because they seek to break the monotony of their environment. By entertaining them with varied and stimulating activities, you reduce their tendency to escape in search of novelty. In short, spending time on your dog through walks and other appropriate distractions is an essential strategy for their mental and physical health, while limiting the risks associated with running away.

Conclusion

Taking everything into consideration, having a runaway dog can be a stressful and dangerous experience for both you and your loyal companion. However, by taking the appropriate measures, such as securing your garden, training your dog, considering sterilization, and providing sufficient daily physical activities, you significantly reduce the risks of runaways. Remember that prevention is the key to ensuring the safety and well-being of your dog. By investing time and effort now, you will create a harmonious environment where your dog can thrive safely. Don't forget that patience, consistency, and love are essential for strengthening the relationship between you and your dog while keeping them happy and safe at home.